Top 58 Slang For Temporary – Meaning & Usage

Temporary situations call for temporary solutions, and when it comes to language, nothing captures the essence of impermanence quite like slang for temporary. Whether you’re navigating a short-lived trend or a fleeting emotion, our team has curated a list of the most relevant and up-to-date slang to keep you in the loop. Say goodbye to confusion and hello to clarity with this guide to all things temporary in the world of language!

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1. Temp

This is a shortened form of the word “temporary” and is commonly used to refer to something that is only meant to last for a short period of time.

For example, a person might say, “I’m just working this temp job until I find something permanent.”
In a conversation about housing, someone might mention, “I’m staying at a temp apartment until I can find a place of my own.”
A student might say, “I’m taking a temp break from school to travel and explore.”

2. Temporarily

This word is an adverb that means something is happening or existing only for a short period of time.

For instance, a sign on a store might say, “Temporarily closed for renovations.”
A person might say, “I’m temporarily staying with my parents until I find a new place.”
In a discussion about a website being down, someone might comment, “The site is temporarily unavailable due to maintenance.”

3. Temp gig

This is a term used to describe a short-term or temporary job or work assignment.

For example, a person might say, “I’m working a temp gig as a receptionist for the summer.”
In a discussion about freelance work, someone might mention, “I take on temp gigs to supplement my income.”
A person might say, “I’m considering taking a temp gig to gain experience in a new field.”

4. Temporarily out of order

This phrase is commonly used to indicate that something is currently not working or functioning properly, but it is expected to be fixed or resolved in the near future.

For instance, a sign on a vending machine might say, “Temporarily out of order. Sorry for the inconvenience.”
In a discussion about a broken elevator, someone might say, “The elevator is temporarily out of order, so we’ll have to take the stairs.”
A person might say, “I can’t use my car right now because it’s temporarily out of order.”

5. Temporarily closed

This phrase is used to indicate that a business or establishment is currently closed, but it is expected to reopen in the near future.

For example, a sign on a restaurant might say, “Temporarily closed for renovations. We’ll be back soon!”
In a discussion about a closed park, someone might say, “The park is temporarily closed due to maintenance.”
A person might say, “I can’t go to the gym today because it’s temporarily closed for cleaning.”

6. Temporarily unavailable

This phrase is used to indicate that something is currently not available or accessible. It suggests a temporary situation where the item or service will be restored at a later time.

For instance, a website might display the message, “Sorry, this page is temporarily unavailable. Please check back later.”
If a product is out of stock, a store might put up a sign saying, “Temporarily unavailable. We apologize for the inconvenience.”
A service provider might inform their customers, “Due to maintenance, our system will be temporarily unavailable from 10 PM to 2 AM.”

7. Temp fix

This term refers to a temporary solution or workaround for a problem or issue. It implies that the fix is not a permanent solution and may need further attention or improvement.

For example, if a car has a flat tire, using a temporary spare tire would be considered a temp fix.
In software development, a programmer might say, “I’ll implement a temp fix for now, but we need a proper solution in the next release.”
If a pipe is leaking, a plumber might say, “I’ll apply a temp fix to stop the leak, but we’ll need to replace the entire pipe later.”

8. Temporarily on hold

This phrase indicates that a process or activity has been temporarily stopped or delayed. It suggests that the pause is temporary and will resume at a later time.

For instance, if a phone call is put on hold, the automated voice might say, “Your call is temporarily on hold. Please wait for the next available representative.”
In a business context, a project manager might inform the team, “Due to unforeseen circumstances, the project is temporarily on hold. We will provide updates as soon as possible.”
If a subscription service is interrupted, the company might notify its customers, “We apologize for the inconvenience. Your subscription is temporarily on hold while we resolve technical issues.”

9. Temporarily suspended

This phrase is used to indicate that a person, activity, or service has been temporarily stopped or halted. It suggests a temporary pause or interruption in the normal functioning.

For example, if a student violates the school’s code of conduct, they might be temporarily suspended.
In a sports game, a player might be temporarily suspended for committing a foul.
If a website is undergoing maintenance or updates, it might display a message saying, “Temporarily suspended for maintenance. We’ll be back soon!”

10. Temporarily offline

This phrase is used to indicate that a website, service, or device is currently not available or accessible. It suggests a temporary interruption in connectivity or functionality.

For instance, if a website is undergoing maintenance, it might display a message saying, “We are temporarily offline for scheduled maintenance. Please check back later.”
If a streaming service experiences technical difficulties, it might inform its users, “We apologize for the inconvenience. The service is temporarily offline while we resolve the issue.”
A company’s customer support line might say, “Our phone lines are temporarily offline. Please leave a message, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.”

11. Temporarily out of stock

This phrase is used to indicate that a product is currently unavailable for purchase because it has been sold out or is not currently in inventory. It suggests that the item will be restocked at a later time.

For example, a customer might ask a store employee, “When will this item be back in stock?”
A website might display a message saying, “Sorry, this product is temporarily out of stock. Check back soon!”
A shopper might say, “I really wanted to buy that shirt, but it’s temporarily out of stock.”

12. Temporarily out of service

This phrase is used to indicate that a service or facility is currently unavailable or not functioning properly. It suggests that the service will be restored or the facility will be repaired at a later time.

For instance, a sign on an elevator might say, “Temporarily out of service. Please use stairs.”
A person might say, “The ATM is temporarily out of service, so I had to find another one.”
A website might display a message saying, “Sorry, this feature is temporarily out of service. We are working to fix it.”

13. Temporarily blocked

This phrase is used to indicate that access to something has been temporarily denied or restricted. It suggests that the block or restriction is not permanent and will be lifted at a later time.

For example, a website might display a message saying, “You have been temporarily blocked from accessing this page due to suspicious activity.”
A user might receive an email saying, “Your account has been temporarily blocked due to a violation of our terms and conditions.”
A person might say, “I was temporarily blocked from commenting on social media because I posted too many comments in a short period of time.”

14. Temporarily restricted

This phrase is used to indicate that something is currently limited or restricted for a temporary period. It suggests that the restriction will be lifted or the limitation will be removed at a later time.

For instance, a sign on a parking lot might say, “Temporarily restricted to staff only.”
A person might say, “I’m on a diet, so my food choices are temporarily restricted.”
A website might display a message saying, “Sorry, access to this content is temporarily restricted to registered users only.”

15. Temporarily disabled

This phrase is used to indicate that something is currently not functioning or unable to be used. It suggests that the disabled item will be repaired or restored to working condition at a later time.

For example, a sign on a broken elevator might say, “Temporarily disabled. Please use stairs.”
A person might say, “My phone is temporarily disabled because I dropped it in water.”
A website might display a message saying, “Sorry, this feature is temporarily disabled while we perform maintenance.”

16. Temporarily disconnected

This refers to someone abruptly cutting off communication or disappearing without any explanation. “Temporarily disconnected” is a euphemism for being ghosted, which is commonly used in dating or friendship contexts.

For example, “I thought we were hitting it off, but then he temporarily disconnected and stopped answering my calls.”
In a discussion about online dating, someone might share, “I’ve been temporarily disconnected by so many people, it’s frustrating.”
A friend might say, “She temporarily disconnected me after our argument, and I haven’t heard from her since.”

17. Temporarily postponed

This means delaying or rescheduling an event, plan, or activity for a temporary period of time. “Temporarily postponed” is similar to putting something on hold, often due to unforeseen circumstances or scheduling conflicts.

For instance, “The concert has been temporarily postponed due to bad weather.”
In a conversation about travel plans, someone might say, “We temporarily postponed our vacation because of work commitments.”
A student might inform their teacher, “I need to temporarily postpone my presentation because I’m not feeling well.”

18. Temporarily delayed

This refers to a temporary interruption or pause in progress. “Temporarily delayed” is often used interchangeably with being held up, which can refer to various situations.

For example, “The train is temporarily delayed due to technical difficulties.”
In a discussion about a project, someone might say, “We’re temporarily delayed because we’re waiting for approval from the client.”
A traveler might complain, “I was held up at the airport for hours due to a security issue.”

19. Temporarily off duty

This means being temporarily relieved from one’s duties or responsibilities. “Temporarily off duty” is similar to taking a breather, which implies a short break or rest period.

For instance, “The police officer is temporarily off duty and not available for assistance.”
In a conversation about work, someone might say, “I need to take a breather and be temporarily off duty for a few days.”
A nurse might inform their colleague, “I’ll be temporarily off duty during the night shift, so you’ll have to cover for me.”

20. Temporarily on break

This means temporarily pausing or stepping away from an activity or task. “Temporarily on break” is similar to taking five, which refers to a short break or intermission.

For example, “I’m temporarily on break from studying. I need to clear my mind.”
In a discussion about work, someone might say, “Let’s take five and have a coffee break.”
A teacher might tell their students, “You can be temporarily on break while I set up the next activity.”

21. Temporarily on leave

This phrase is used to indicate that someone is temporarily away from their job or duties. It implies that the person will return after a certain period of time.

For example, “I will be temporarily on leave for a week due to a family emergency.”
A co-worker might ask, “When will you be back from your temporarily on leave?”
A manager might say, “We have hired a temporary replacement while you are on leave.”

22. Temporarily on vacation

This phrase is used to indicate that someone is taking a temporary break from their usual routine or responsibilities. It implies that the person will resume their regular activities after a certain period of time.

For instance, “I will be temporarily on vacation for a week to recharge.”
A friend might ask, “Where are you going for your temporarily on vacation?”
A colleague might say, “Enjoy your temporarily on vacation! We’ll hold down the fort while you’re gone.”

23. Short-term

This term is used to describe something that will only last for a short period of time. It can refer to a job, a project, a solution, or any other temporary situation.

For example, “I’m looking for a short-term job to earn some extra money.”
A business might advertise, “We are offering short-term rentals for vacationers.”
A student might say, “I’m taking a short-term course to improve my skills.”

24. Quick fix

This phrase is used to describe a temporary solution or workaround to a problem or issue. It implies that the solution is not a long-term fix, but rather a temporary way to address the problem.

For instance, “I used duct tape as a quick fix for the broken chair.”
A homeowner might say, “I’ll apply a quick fix to the leaky faucet until a plumber can come.”
A software developer might use a quick fix to patch a bug before releasing a more permanent solution.

25. Band-aid

This term is used to describe a temporary solution or cover-up for a problem or issue. It implies that the solution is not a long-term fix, but rather a temporary way to hide or address the problem.

For example, “Using makeup to cover a pimple is just a band-aid solution.”
A manager might say, “We need to find a band-aid solution for the budget deficit until we can implement more permanent changes.”
A teacher might use a band-aid fix to temporarily repair a torn page in a textbook.

26. Stopgap

A stopgap refers to something that is used as a temporary solution or substitute until a permanent solution or replacement is found.

For example, “We need a stopgap measure to keep the project running until we hire a new team member.”
In a discussion about a broken machine, someone might suggest, “Let’s use duct tape as a stopgap until we can get it fixed.”
A manager might say, “We need to find a stopgap solution to handle the increased workload until we can hire more staff.”

27. Interim

Interim refers to something that is temporary, provisional, or in place until a permanent replacement or solution is found.

For instance, “We have appointed an interim CEO while we search for a permanent one.”
In a discussion about a vacant position, someone might ask, “Do we have an interim plan until we find a new hire?”
A company might announce, “We are implementing an interim policy to address the current situation until we can develop a long-term strategy.”

28. Fill-in

A fill-in is a temporary replacement for someone or something that is absent or unavailable.

For example, “Can you be the fill-in for the receptionist while she’s on vacation?”
In a sports team, a coach might say, “We need a fill-in player for the injured team member.”
A teacher might ask, “Can someone be the fill-in for the class monitor today?”

29. Stand-in

A stand-in is a temporary substitute for someone or something, often used in the entertainment industry to refer to a person who takes the place of an actor for certain scenes.

For instance, “The actor’s stand-in will be used for the wide shots.”
In a theater production, a director might say, “We need a stand-in for the lead actor during rehearsals.”
A photographer might ask, “Can you be the stand-in while I set up the lighting?”

30. Placeholder

A placeholder is a temporary marker or symbol used to represent something that will be filled in or replaced later.

For example, “We used a placeholder image until we could find the right one.”
In a website design, a developer might say, “I’ll use a placeholder text for now and replace it with the actual content later.”
A student might write, “I used a placeholder name in my essay until I could remember the character’s real name.”

31. Make-do

This term refers to making the best out of a temporary or less than ideal situation. It implies finding a solution with the available resources or options.

For example, if someone is traveling and forgets their toothbrush, they might say, “I’ll just make-do with using my finger.”
In a discussion about budgeting, someone might advise, “When money is tight, you have to learn to make-do with what you have.”
A person describing their living situation might say, “I’m currently make-doing with a small studio apartment until I find something better.”

32. Patch-up

This term refers to fixing or repairing something in a temporary or makeshift way. It implies a temporary solution until a proper fix can be made.

For instance, if a car has a leaking tire, someone might say, “Let’s patch-up the tire until we can get it replaced.”
In a conversation about home repairs, a person might suggest, “You can patch-up that hole in the wall with some spackle and paint.”
A DIY enthusiast might share a tip, “If you have a leaky pipe, you can use plumber’s tape to patch it up temporarily.”

33. Standby

This term refers to being ready or available for immediate use or action. It implies being prepared to step in or take over temporarily if needed.

For example, in a restaurant, a waiter might say, “We have a table on standby in case of a last-minute reservation.”
In a work setting, a coworker might ask, “Can you be on standby in case I need to take a break?”
A person discussing travel plans might mention, “I always have a backup plan on standby in case my flight gets canceled.”

34. Ad hoc

This term refers to something that is created or done for a specific purpose or situation. It implies a temporary or improvised solution that is not part of a formal or planned process.

For instance, if a team needs to quickly organize a meeting, they might have an ad hoc discussion to decide on a time and place.
In a conversation about project management, someone might say, “We formed an ad hoc committee to address the urgent issue.”
A person describing a temporary rule might say, “We have an ad hoc policy in place until we can establish a more permanent solution.”

35. Pro tem

This term is an abbreviation for “pro tempore” which means “for the time being” or “temporary.” It is often used to describe someone who holds a temporary position or role.

For example, in a government setting, a person might be appointed as a pro tem mayor until a new election can be held.
In a legal context, a pro tem judge might be assigned to preside over a specific case.
A person discussing a substitute teacher might say, “We have a pro tem teacher filling in until the regular teacher returns from leave.”

36. Jury-rig

This term refers to a temporary or makeshift solution to a problem using whatever materials or resources are available. It implies a quick and often imperfect solution.

For example, “We jury-rigged a temporary antenna to get TV reception during the storm.”
In a DIY project, someone might say, “I jury-rigged a bookshelf using cinder blocks and planks of wood.”
A mechanic might use the term when describing a temporary repair, saying, “I jury-rigged the exhaust pipe until I can get a replacement.”

37. Ad interim

This Latin phrase means “in the meantime” or “for the time being.” It is used to describe a temporary or provisional arrangement or position.

For instance, “He was appointed ad interim CEO while the search for a permanent replacement was underway.”
In a work setting, someone might say, “I’ll be handling the ad interim responsibilities until a new manager is hired.”
A professor might mention, “I’ll be taking an ad interim role as the department chair while the current chair is on sabbatical.”

38. Quickie

This slang term refers to something that is done quickly or completed in a short amount of time. It can refer to various activities or events, often of a sexual nature.

For example, “Let’s have a quickie before we leave.”
In a discussion about work, someone might say, “I just need to have a quickie meeting to go over the main points.”
A person might mention, “I had a quickie trip to the grocery store to pick up some essentials.”

39. Whistle-stop

This term refers to a short visit or stop at a place, often used in the context of political campaigns or train journeys.

For instance, “The candidate made a whistle-stop tour of several cities to rally support.”
In a travel context, someone might say, “We made a whistle-stop visit to Paris during our European vacation.”
A historian might mention, “The president’s whistle-stop campaign in 1948 was a pivotal moment in American politics.”

40. Hit-and-run

This term is often used to describe a situation where someone commits a crime, such as a car accident, and then flees the scene without stopping to take responsibility.

For example, “The driver was involved in a hit-and-run accident and was later apprehended by the police.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “I’m tired of these hit-and-run flings. I want something more meaningful.”
A sports commentator might mention, “The team’s star player made a hit-and-run appearance in the game before being substituted.”

41. Pop-up

This term refers to something that appears suddenly and briefly, often for a specific purpose or event. It can be used to describe a temporary store, exhibition, or event that pops up and then disappears.

For example, “There’s a pop-up shop downtown selling handmade crafts.”
A person might say, “I went to a pop-up restaurant last night and tried some amazing dishes.”
In a discussion about art, someone might mention, “There’s a pop-up art gallery showcasing local artists this weekend.”

42. Flash in the pan

This phrase comes from the idea of a gun misfiring, where the gunpowder in the pan ignites but fails to ignite the main charge. It is used to describe something that shows promise or potential but ultimately fails to deliver long-term success.

For instance, “That new band had one hit song but turned out to be a flash in the pan.”
In a conversation about sports, someone might say, “He had a great rookie season, but it was just a flash in the pan.”
A person discussing a short-lived trend might comment, “Remember when fidget spinners were popular? They were just a flash in the pan.”

43. Short-lived

This term describes something that does not last long or has a short duration. It can be used to describe events, relationships, trends, or any other temporary situation.

For example, “Their marriage was short-lived and ended in divorce.”
A person might say, “The popularity of that TV show was short-lived.”
In a discussion about technology, someone might mention, “The battery life of that smartphone is quite short-lived.”

44. Fleeting

This word describes something that is brief or passing, often with a sense of transience or impermanence. It can be used to describe moments, emotions, or experiences that are temporary and quickly vanish.

For instance, “I caught a fleeting glimpse of a shooting star.”
In a conversation about happiness, someone might say, “Sometimes happiness can feel fleeting.”
A person discussing memories might comment, “Childhood summers always felt so fleeting.”

45. Ephemeral

This term refers to something that is extremely short-lived or transitory. It can be used to describe moments, experiences, or things that are fleeting and quickly fade away.

For example, “The beauty of cherry blossoms is ephemeral, lasting only a few days.”
A person might say, “Social media posts are often ephemeral, disappearing after 24 hours.”
In a discussion about art, someone might mention, “Performance art is known for its ephemeral nature.”

46. Transient

This term refers to something or someone that is passing through or staying briefly in a place. It often describes a temporary state or condition.

For example, “I’m just a transient traveler, exploring the world and moving from one place to another.”
In a discussion about housing, someone might say, “The city needs to provide more options for transient residents.”
A person describing their lifestyle might say, “I prefer a transient existence, never staying in one place for too long.”

47. Substitute

This term is used to describe something or someone that takes the place of another temporarily. It often refers to a replacement or alternative.

For instance, in a sports game, a player might be substituted due to injury, and a commentator might say, “The coach has brought in a substitute.”
In a conversation about work, someone might say, “I’ll be your substitute while you’re on vacation.”
A person discussing food might say, “You can use applesauce as a substitute for butter in baking.”

48. Provisional

This term describes something that is temporary or subject to change. It often refers to a temporary solution or arrangement.

For example, “We have a provisional agreement in place until we finalize the details.”
In a discussion about government, someone might say, “The president has the power to make provisional appointments.”
A person describing their current living situation might say, “I’m in a provisional housing situation until I find a permanent place.”

49. Passing

This term refers to something that is brief or short-lived. It often describes a temporary state or occurrence.

For instance, in a conversation about fashion trends, someone might say, “That style is just a passing fad.”
In a discussion about emotions, a person might say, “I had a passing moment of sadness, but it didn’t linger.”
A person describing a temporary job might say, “I’m just doing some passing work until I find something more permanent.”

50. Momentary

This term describes something that lasts for a very short time or is fleeting. It often refers to a temporary or short-lived occurrence.

For example, “I had a momentary lapse in judgment.”
In a conversation about distractions, someone might say, “I had a momentary loss of focus, but then I regained it.”
A person describing a temporary feeling might say, “I felt a momentary sense of relief before the stress returned.”

51. Evanescent

This term refers to something that lasts for a very short time, almost like it disappears or fades away quickly. It can be used to describe a temporary feeling, event, or phenomenon.

For example, “The evanescent beauty of a rainbow after a rainstorm.”
In a discussion about passing trends, someone might say, “Fashion trends can be evanescent, with styles coming and going.”
A poet might write, “Like a shooting star, love is evanescent, here one moment and gone the next.”

52. Impermanent

Impermanent refers to something that is not permanent or enduring, but rather temporary or fleeting. It can describe a state or condition that is subject to change or does not last for a long time.

For instance, “The impermanent nature of youth and beauty.”
In a conversation about temporary living arrangements, someone might say, “I’m staying in an impermanent apartment until I find a permanent home.”
A philosopher might ponder, “Is anything truly permanent, or is everything impermanent?”

53. Brief

Brief is a term used to describe something that lasts for a short duration or period of time. It implies a temporary nature or a lack of permanence.

For example, “A brief moment of silence before the performance.”
In a discussion about a short meeting, someone might say, “Let’s keep it brief and stick to the main points.”
A teacher might give instructions like, “Write a brief summary of the chapter in your own words.”

54. Intermittent

Intermittent refers to something that occurs at irregular intervals or with breaks in between. It suggests a temporary or sporadic nature, with periods of activity followed by periods of inactivity or rest.

For instance, “The intermittent rain showers throughout the day.”
In a conversation about a faulty electrical connection, someone might say, “The lights have been intermittent, flickering on and off.”
A fitness enthusiast might recommend, “Try doing intermittent fasting for improved health and weight loss.”

55. Limited

Limited refers to something that is restricted or confined within certain boundaries or constraints. It implies a temporary or finite nature, with a set amount or duration.

For example, “Limited edition collector’s items.”
In a discussion about available resources, someone might say, “We have limited time and budget, so let’s prioritize.”
A salesperson might advertise, “Limited time offer, get it while supplies last!”

56. Provisionary

Provisionary refers to something that is temporary or subject to change. It is often used to describe a temporary solution or arrangement.

For example, “We have put a provisionary plan in place until we can find a permanent solution.”
A person discussing a temporary job might say, “I’m currently working in a provisionary position until they hire someone full-time.”
In a discussion about a temporary living situation, someone might say, “I’m staying in a provisionary apartment until I find a permanent place to live.”

57. Short-range

Short-range refers to something that is temporary or has a limited duration. It can be used to describe a temporary situation or a short-term goal.

For instance, “I’m only here for a short-range visit, just for the weekend.”
A person discussing a temporary project might say, “We’re working on a short-range plan to address the immediate issues.”
In a conversation about a short-term goal, someone might say, “I’m focusing on short-range objectives to achieve success.”

58. Provisionally

Provisionally means something is done or agreed upon temporarily, pending further action or confirmation. It is often used to describe a temporary arrangement or decision.

For example, “We have provisionally agreed to the terms, but we still need to sign the contract.”
A person discussing a temporary appointment might say, “I have been provisionally hired until they conduct a background check.”
In a discussion about a temporary solution, someone might say, “We have provisionally fixed the issue, but we need to find a permanent solution.”